“ We are pleased the Minister and CCDU have finally acknowledged that Victoria Square belongs to the Residents of Christchurch. CCDU have finally listened to the Christchurch Residents who have attended meetings, written letters, set Talkback alive and in endless private conversations have repeatedly stated Victoria Square No Need For Change.”
The Media Release  is as follows:

Media Release: 15^th July 2015

From: “Victoria Square: No Need For Change”

Subject: Release of the Victoria Square Draft Restoration Plan

Mark Gerrard Spokesperson for the “Victoria Square No Need For Change”.

“This draft plan is a victory for the Residents of Christchurch”

“ We are pleased the Minister and CCDU have finally acknowledged that Victoria Square belongs to the Residents of Christchurch. CCDU have finally listened to the Christchurch Residents who have attended meetings, written letters, set Talkback alive and in endless private conversations have repeatedly stated Victoria Square No Need For Change.”

“ We are in agreement with the general intention of the draft plan of repair and restore.”

“We will of course be vigilant to ensure the proposed additions of the ‘Art Trail Installation’ and ‘Shared Heritage Opportunity’ are sympathetic to the current design of Victoria Square.”

“We note the Draft Plan refers to damage to the existing assets such as light fittings. CCDU should ensure firstly that they can be retained and any replacements must be in keeping with the original design of Victoria Square.

“The CCDU proposal for the Victoria Connection across the former Crowne Plaza site could strengthen Victoria Square. There will be concerns that the design of the proposed Connection does not turn Victorian Square into a fast cycling lane.”

Mark Gerrard
Spokesperson for Victoria Square No Need For Change
021 157 5043

Background:

Victoria Square: No Need For Change is a coalition of the Christchurch Civic Trust, Historic Places Canterbury and concerned individuals.